If not you,
then who?
A program to encourage students, faculty and staff to be proactive bystanders when they see something they are concerned about or see someone in need. With everyone’s help, we can create and maintain the safe and supportive campus environment we all want to be a part of. Step Up UCI!
“We have all learned or heard of the terms "bystander effect" and/or "pluralistic ignorance" either through courses or distant chatter, but we tend to forget our ability to reverse these unfortunate occurrences. We tend to observe these instances and judge the characters of those who failed to act, yet we are blind to the fact that we might have failed to act if put in the same situation, whether it may be out of fear or sheer confusion. Step Up has not only made me more aware of how important it is for us act during these times, but it has offered many alternative ways in which one can act while still making the same impact. It has suggested the possibility of anyone, regardless of personality type or comfort level, standing up for another person in times of trouble. And because of that, I am forever thankful for attending the seminar.”
“I was first introduced to the topic of bystander effect through my high school psychology class. As an individual, I personally take pride in being reliable and helpful. However the bystander effect helped me understand that people might not be so helpful when it comes to helping a stranger in a situation in which others are present. I was once again introduced to the topic during Student Housing training in which we participated in Step Up UCI! The Step Up UCI! workshop helped sharpen my leadership skills by teaching and showing me different ways in which I can take charge of the situation and stand up to make an impact. I am grateful for attending the Step Up UCI! workshop because it gave me the confidence that I needed to serve as a leader in the housing community.”